
Bored with the same old lock screen shortcuts? iOS 18 is here to shake things up! Ditch the predictable Camera and Flashlight icons. Now, you’re in control. Imagine instant access to your most-used apps, right from your lock screen. We’ll show you how to banish the defaults and create a personalized experience that puts your iPhone power at your fingertips. Get ready to unlock a whole new level of customization!
Tired of just seeing the time on your lock screen? Transform it into a personalized information hub! Discover how to add widgets and get instant access to weather updates, calendar events, fitness stats, and more. Level up your iPhone experience now!
Replace Default Lock Screen Shortcuts on iPhone
First, ensure your iPhone’s ready for action! You’ll need iOS 18 or later. Dive intoSettings, thenGeneral, and tapAbout. TheiOS Versionline will tell you if you’re good to go. Feeling lucky? Head back toGeneral, hitSoftware Update, and see if Apple’s got a surprise upgrade waiting just for you.
Ready to revamp your lock screen? Just updated your device? Sweet! Now, give that screen a long, loving press. Feel theCustomizebutton materialize below? Tap it and let the magic begin!

On the next screen, press onLock screen.

See those minus signs hovering above your lock screen shortcuts? That’s your invitation to a quick customization session. Tap the–on each icon to banish them. Want a minimalist lock screen? HitDoneand enjoy the clean, uncluttered look.

Ready to supercharge your workflow? Simply tap the+button perched atop your existing shortcuts to unleash a whole new arsenal of commands.

Craving instant tranquility? With iOS 18.4, Apple’s Ambient Music is your pocket-sized spa. Now, imagine summoning those calming soundscapes directly from your lock screen. No unlocking, just pure, immediate serenity. A single tap, and you’re transported.

Imagine unlocking your phone and instantly launching any app, scanning QR codes, or translating languages. It’s not a dream; it’s within reach. Beyond the standard features, your lock screen holds hidden shortcuts, a gateway to your favorite apps, a rapid QR code scanner, and instant translation at your fingertips.
Imagine this: your phone’s locked, yet a world of instant AI conversation awaits. That’s the power of custom lock screen shortcuts. I’ve personally added a ChatGPT shortcut. Now, without even unlocking, I can dive straight into a chat, turning idle moments into productive dialogues with AI.

But that’s not all! Imagine launching your custom-built Shortcuts crafted with the Shortcuts app directly from your lock screen. Intrigued? We’re diving into that magical shortcut world next.
Once you’ve added your new lock screen shortcuts, remember that you have to long press on them to activate them.
Tip : learn how to use Autofill like a pro on your iPhone or iPad.
Add Custom Shortcut to iPhone Lock Screen
Imagine unlocking your iPhone and instantly jumping into your most important conversation. With iOS 18.4, Apple lets you ditch the endless scrolling through Messages. Now, you can craft a direct shortcut on your lock screen to any specific chat. We’re diving in to show you how to set this up, transforming your lock screen into a hyper-efficient communication hub.
Open the Shortcuts app on your phone. Press the+button in the upper right corner of the display.

On the next screen type “Open conversation” in theSearch Actionsbar that appears on theNew Shortcutpage.

Select the option when it appears.
Press onConversation(in blue text.)

Want instant access to your favorite chats? Pin important conversations, like your daily catch-up with Mom or your best friend’s hilarious memes, directly to your lock screen! Now, replying is lightning-fast no unlock required.

Once you’ve added the conversation pressDone. Your new shortcut has been saved.
Ready to supercharge your iPhone’s lock screen? Ditch a shortcut you don’t use. See that plus sign? Tap it and prepare to unleash a world of possibilities.
SelectShortcutthis time around.

Tap theChoosebutton in the pop-up that appears.

Find theOpen Conversationshortcut and select it.

Tap anywhere on the screen, then pressDone.

Your custom shortcut has now been added.

Craving more digital discretion? Discover the secret to locking down your iPhone and iPad apps – your private world, perfectly protected.
Change Custom Shortcuts Icons
That message bubble is your express lane to chat. But custom shortcuts? They’re all sporting the same drab icon. Want to inject some personality and instantly spot them in a crowd? Here’s how to swap out that generic badge for something trulyyou.
Ready to jazz up your Shortcuts? Let’s give your “Open Conversation” shortcut a visual punch! Simply tap the shortcut to open it. See that tiny, almosthidden downward arrow at the top? Give that a tap, then selectChoose Iconand prepare to unleash your inner artist.

Ditch the default Shortcuts icon! Give your pinned conversations a personality boost. Scroll through the options below and handpick an icon that truly reflects the chat it represents. TapDoneand watch your customized icon come to life!

Go back to your lock screen, the new icon for your shortcut should be showing up.

Ready to unlock next-level iPhone personalization? We’ve only scratched the surface! For more lock screen magic, dive into our extended guide packed with hidden features. And if you’re feeling truly adventurous, discover how to completely transform your home screen by customizing your iPhone icons.
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